Aging and Loneliness in the Same Book!

The papers presented at the VI. International Loneliness Symposium, organized under the leadership of Üsküdar University, were brought together in a book titled “Aging and Loneliness.” The work, published by Üsküdar University Publications, examines the phenomenon of aging and loneliness from the perspectives of different disciplines.

The book “Aging and Loneliness,” comprising papers from the VI. International Loneliness Symposium organized under the leadership of Üsküdar University, has been published. The book, which meets readers under the Üsküdar University Publications label, includes papers, articles, and evaluations presented within the scope of the symposium. 

The work examines aging and loneliness from the perspectives of different disciplines such as sociology, psychology, neurology, gerontology, social work, and social policy.

Psychological and Social Dimensions of Loneliness are Examined

In the evaluations included in the book, President of Üsküdar University, Psychiatrist Prof. Nevzat Tarhan, draws attention to the erosion of trust as one of the fundamental psychological dynamics of loneliness. Tarhan discusses the importance of quality and trust-based friendships in combating loneliness.

Üsküdar University Rector Prof. Nazife Güngör, on the other hand, evaluates the effects of modernization and urbanization that can lead individuals to feel lonely amidst crowds. Prof. Ebulfez Süleymanlı addresses loneliness in old age within the context of social change, transformation in family structures, and weakening trust relationships, while Prof. Erol Göka points out that the concepts of aging and loneliness need to be re-evaluated under changing social conditions.

Examples of Aging and Loneliness from Different Countries

The work examines the different social and cultural dimensions of loneliness through examples from Turkey, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Russia. While the Turkey section presents the findings of a field study conducted with 800 people in 30 provinces, Kazakhstan's social situation of the elderly and state support mechanisms are discussed.

In the book, which examines family structure and care services in Azerbaijan, digital socialization in Uzbekistan, and the foster family model aimed at reducing loneliness among the elderly in Russia, the approaches of different countries regarding aging and loneliness are comparatively evaluated.

From Age-Friendly Cities to Gerontological Interventions

In the book “Aging and Loneliness,” in addition to the neurological and psychosocial effects of loneliness, innovative gerontological intervention models, local government practices, and age-friendly city approaches are also discussed.

The work, edited by Prof. Ebulfez Süleymanlı, Asst. Prof. Nihan Kalkandeler Özdin, Asst. Prof. İdil Arasan Doğan, and Melike Demir, evaluates aging and loneliness as a multidimensional issue related to family, society, health, social services, and public policies, beyond an individual experience.